"When the tides of life turn against you
And the current upsets your boat,
Don't waste those tears on what might have been,
Just lay on your back and float."

Ed Norton (of "The Honeymooners")

I think we can safely say that paddle boaters were here first! And now, as recreation, the number of people involved in some
type of paddle sport is rising. Paddleboaters are now the fastest growing segment of the boating community. Growth in the sport
exceeds 270% within the most recent decade.

Canoes and kayaks have a rich
tradition of waterway transportation and
recreation. But in today's age of large, fast motorized craft and their wakes,
human-powered craft are among the most vulnerable to accidents and fatalities. Kayaks, canoes, and other slow moving vessels can be difficult to spot and cannot maneuver or change course quickly.
The responsible boater recognizes that, and takes reasonable precautions when operating
in canoe and kayak waters.

Remember, our waterways belong to everybody!

In 2007, one hundred seven fatalities were attributable to canoes,
kayaks, and rowboats. The use of properly fitted life jackets could have prevented
nearly all those fatalities.

"MORE THAN HALF OF ALL BOATING FATALITIES
IN 2007 WERE FROM CAPSIZING OR FALLS OVERBOARD. CONSIDERING THE INSTABILITY
OF CANOES AND KAYAKS AND THE RISK TO DROWNING OR HYPOTHERMIA FROM FALLS OVERBOARD,
IT IS BEYOND ME WHY ANYONE WOULD CONSIDER OPERATING SUCH A VESSEL WITHOUT WEARING A
PFD."

(From a U. S. Coast Guard media release - July 2008)KAYAKING/CANOEING REPRESENT MORE THAN 15% OF ALL RECREATIONAL BOATING FATALITIES IN THE UNITED STATES.

LOS ANGELES, Calif...In a year where overall recreational boating fatalities decreased from 710 in 2006 to 685 in 2007. The number of fatalities associated with the use of canoes/kayaks increased to 107 in 2007 as compared with 99 in 2006. This is according to statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard?s Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety. This figure represents about 15.6 percent of the total of all recreational fatalities in the U.S. in 2007. Of the 107 fatalities associated with kayaking/canoeing 97 were from drowning (66 canoe/ 31 kayak.) The complete 2007 Recreational Boating Statistics are available at http://www.uscgboating.org/statistics/accident_stats.htm.

A recent study by the Outdoor Industry Foundation has shown a dramatic increase in the number of Americans participating in kayaking, a 23% increase in 2005 alone. As the number of people turning to kayaking/canoeing (especially with rising fuel cost), so does the risk for kayak and canoe operators getting themselves into trouble.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the American Canoe Association (http://www.americancanoe.org ) offers some basic safety tips:

Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket.

Be comfortable in the water, out of your boat.

Obtain the knowledge, skills and ability necessary for kayaking and canoeing.

Bring appropriate safety, rescue, and navigational aids, and more than adequate food, water, and extra protective clothing. Do not wear cotton!

Pick an activity level that matches your ability, and progress to more demanding challenges.

Monitor your physical and emotional condition, and watch the other members or your group for fatigue, illness, and changes in behavior.

Know and follow all local, state and federal laws.

Be visible - wear bright colors so others can see you between waves or in the fog. Carry a bright light, flares, and whistle to signal your position.

Take a boating safety class offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and direct law enforcement actions. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of the United States Coast Guard. For more information visit www.cgaux.org if you are ready to be join visit http://join.cgaux.org/ .

The United States Power Squadrons offers these helpful tips for kayakers.

Every kayaker should have an essentials kit ready to go. Here?s a roundup of some equipment that no paddler should be without:

Life vest. Your personal flotation device should be highly visible, adjust to accommodate different clothing weights and allow free arm movement. It should also be comfortable enough to wear zipped anytime you?re on the water.

Spray skirt. A spray skirt seals you inside the kayak. One end fits around your waist, and the other end attaches to the cockpit coaming. Although not completely waterproof, a spray skirt keeps water out of the cockpit, protects your legs from the sun and keeps you warm in cold weather.

Bilge pump. A hand-operated bilge pump can help you remove water from your boat. Make sure it has a float collar so it won?t sink.

Paddle float and rescue sling. An inflatable bladder that slips over a paddle blade, a paddle float provides flotation and support when you re-enter your boat from the water. A rescue sling is a piece of floating line made into a loop with double fisherman?s knots. It?s useful for rigging a stirrup to give you a boost as you climb back into the cockpit.

Spare paddle and paddle leash.

Signaling devices. You?ll need a variety of sound and visual signals for day and night use. Your stash should include a waterproof flashlight, whistle, flares, strobes, smoke canisters, dye markers and signaling mirrors.

VHF radio and cell phone. A VHF radio lets you put out a distress call to the Coast Guard and nearby boaters. A cell phone is best for staying in touch with people on shore.

(From a U. S. Coast Guard media release - August 2002)

CANOEIST AND KAYAKERS: Those Who Really Need To Wear A Life Jacket: 104 Reported Deaths In 2000 And 93
Were Drowning Victims

Ö Why does the Coast Guard care, and why is it necessary to encourage these enthusiasts
to wear lifejackets? It is not that Canoeist, kayakers, anglers, and hunters are of a greater concern to the
Coast Guard and the States than power or sailboats. No, itís more of concern for the stability of the vessels,
the environmental conditions they are attracted to and many times the lack of other boaters or people being in
the isolated areas where they boat. Getting the message to these marine and sport enthusiasts has been and is
difficult, yet they are in a category that needs to hear it the most. Constant reminders of 'safety first' will help ensure it doesn't fall on deaf ears.

Year round many canoeist, kayakers, hunters and anglers venture into waters that are isolated or
where the scenery or their thrill carries its own set of dangers. Canoeists, as do many kayakers, like
to venture on secluded lakes and ponds or secluded sections of rivers, tributaries, and streams and even
back bays or inlets. There are not many boaters or others in these secluded areas and many times such areas
are unmarked, are hard to find and take time to reach. Wearing a lifejacket may buy the time that saves a life
or lives.

Kayakers are not only found using isolated waters, they love and seek white/rapid waters and now even are
seen off shore, in bays, and harbors where congestion and their low profile or visibility threatens their
safety. Accidents on these waters produce impact and trauma injuries and wearing a lifejacket may well be
the only opportunity for surviving. Too often accidents on these waters incapacitate an individual or render
them unconscious. A lifejacket keeps them from sinking below the surface. Very seldom, can rescuers reach
someone in time once they have sunk below the surface.

Registration, Titling, and User Fees

In 2000, twenty eight states in the U. S. had requirements that non-powered vessels be numbered,
and 24 states required registration. Sixteen states required titling of non-powered vessels,
and seven required payment of a user fee. If you're
not sure of the registration laws in your state, you should find out.

Tips For Safer Canoeing and Kayaking

WEAR A LIFEJACKET
WEAR A LIFEJACKET
WEAR A LIFEJACKET...Most canoe spills take place in shallow water
and swift current. There is a good probability that a dumped canoeist
could hit his head on a rock or his boat. It is nearly impossible to
swim in rapids, or through downed trees. A life jacket is essential, not only
for flotation, but for hypothermia protection. And by the way, after most drownings
from canoes or kayaks, life jackets are seen floating nearby...empty. You have to WEAR
them!

FILE A FLOAT PLAN...If you're on a canoe or kayaking trip, somebody ought to know if you get into trouble,
and the only way that can happen
is if you tell a friend in advance of your trip . Give that person the names of all passengers or companions,
the place you'll be starting and ending your trip, when you plan to arrive at your destination
and any waypoints in between. You should also include phone numbers of law enforcement agencies
along the way, with instructions on when and who to contact if you are overdue.

BE HONEST...It's important to know the limitations of your abilities. Be honest with yourself and your
companions. Your life and the lives of those in your party may depend on how everyone understands
each other's capabilities. If you overstate your abilities, eventually someone is going to be counting
on help that you won't be able to give them, so if you're a novice, admit it. If you're a pro, admit that, too.
The novices in the group will feel better knowing you're along on the trip.

KNOW THE WEATHER...A waterproof weather radio or hand held VHF Marine radio can be a big help when
the skies begin to darken or you get a sudden wind shift. Check the sky and sea conditions, and NEVER
operate in a situation that exceeds your capability.

KNOW THE WATER...Don't attempt rivers or rapids beyond your ability. Progress gradually from one skill level to
the next. Unfamiliar
waters are no place to test your limits, or try to impress anybody. Each stream or river
presents unique challenges, and dangers. Even well-seasoned veterans
need to become familiar with the body of water before embarking on a journey.

KNOW THE WATER STAGE...After heavy rains, streams, rivers, and creeks rise and sweep lots of debris
from the shoreline. Debris can become a trap or hindrance in water incidents. Debris can be
found in three levels: on the surface, suspended in the water and on the bottom. It's important to remember that just about
any material or object may be in any, or all, of the three types of debris in water. Suspended
and bottom debris is usually invisible to you, and therefore are especially dangerous.

GO IN A GROUP...Boating alone is not recommended. Even though recreational canoeists
often canoe with a single canoe and one partner, or even solo,
it is recommended you canoe with at least three people or two craft.
The less the skill of the paddler, and the less that is known about the stream,
the more important this rule becomes.

CLOTHING...Dress properly for existing and expected conditions. Extreme cold requires
wet or dry suits, but in more moderate conditions layered clothing is recommended. Fabric choices should include those that provide
warmth, even when wet. Cotton should never be worn in cold weather conditions because they "wick" heat away
from the body when wet, accelerating the affects of hypothermia. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your head, neck, and ears from the sun.

EYE GLASSES AND SUNGLASSES...You'll need a strap for attaching them to your head. This is particularly
important during a capsize when eyewear can easily slip off and go to the bottom.

FOOTWEAR...Don't forget shoes. Tennis shoes are best for
canoeing and should be worn at all times. Bare feet have no place in
canoeing...the terrain of the land and the bottoms of streams can be
hazardous.

CARRY PROPER EQUIPMENT...Carry a spare paddle in the boat, and a small PVC type bilge pump.
The pump should have a flotation collar, and is essential to get a kayak cockpit pumped out before the next wave breaks.
Equip your craft with bow
and stern lines. An extra safety throwing line
(at least 50 feet in length) can be very valuable. But be careful how
you stow these lines. If the canoe spills, feet can become entangled
in loose lines, and this can lead to serious trouble. There should be
nothing around which will attach someone to a swamped canoe. Loose
lines can be deadly. You'll also want to pack a First Aid Kit and secure it to the boat.
Paddle sports enthusiasts often operate in remote areas where medical attention is not
readily available. And it wouldn't hurt to take a first aid and CPR course while you're at it. Store
small items such as sunscreen and bug repellent, food and snacks in a waterproof dry-bag,
tethered to the boat. When tying down these items, make sure they are stowed in an area
that will not interfere with the users' ability to exit the vessel safely in the event of a capsize.
Emergency signalling gear should be stored in the pockets of your PFD and tied down so that
when accessed they won't be lost.

(There may also be state equipment requirements for canoes and kayaks where you live,
so be sure and check your local equipment regulations.)

USE A SPRAY SKIRT...Add to your comfort and warmth while kayaking by keeping as much water out of the cockpit
as possible. A passing boat might toss a wake, or just a change in weather can cause splashing into your quarters.
Know how to attach it properly, and know how to remove it quickly in an emergency.

BALANCE YOUR BOAT...Make sure your boat's load is balanced, side to side and front to back. Don't
overload the boat, and if your are carrying cargo, make sure it's secured so it doesn't shift
around.

DON'T CROWD YOUR BUDDY...In rapids and restricted passages, keep a safe distance behind other
boats. Don't crowd, and back paddle if necessary. The lead boat should pull up and wait after
passing a difficult area. If someone encounters trouble, be willing to stop and offer your
assistance. At put-in and take-out points, be courteous and take turns.

STAY OUT OF FLOOD WATERS...Growing up on the Mississippi, I remember the temptation to get out the
canoe and paddle around the streets running swift with flood waters. But flood waters can exert
several tons of force on a canoe pinned against a tree or bridge pier or the side of a building. A canoe can be pinned
under a log jam or downed tree, trapping its paddlers. So stay out of flood waters. And if you
happen to be canoeing or camping and heavy rain forces you to leave - don't try to cross
waterways with heavy drainage. We don't want to read about you in the morning news.

STAY OUT OF COLD WATER...You don't have to worry about hypothermia if you're boating in water over
98.6 degrees. If you fall into water less than that temperature, your body will begin immediately to cool
in the direction of the water temperature. If your bod temp gets down to about 85 degrees, you're pretty
much done for. Cold water causes death in nearly half of the drowning cases reported. If you do
fall into cold water, follow these steps:

If you're in the water with one or more persons, huddle together closely.

If you're a rescuer, don't apply heat to arms or legs, or give massages or hot baths.
The best way to warm a victim is with body-to-body contact and a tight blanket.

HANDLING HOT WEATHER...Hot weather can be as dangerous as cold water.
Carry plenty of drinking water.
The water surface and aluminum canoes cause considerable reflection
on sunny days which may lead to serious sunburn, heat exhaustion or sunstroke. Everyone enjoys
getting out in the sun, but canoeing in a swimsuit or bikini can be dangerous. Canoeists need
to wear or carry a shirt, blouse or jacket. Hats or other head coverings help prevent heat
exhaustion or sunstroke. Know the symptoms and first aid procedures for these serious conditions.

OVERBOARD IN CURRENT...In rivers with a current, stay upstream of the boat to avoid being pinned.
Don't float with your body on the down river side of the canoe. Staying upstream allows you
to avoid being pinned against obstructions. Even a light current flow can cause you to be
pinned between an immovable object and your canoe. Stay away from strainers (trees and parts
of trees or posts which are submerged and subject to strong currents), and sweepers
(low-hanging branches which touch the water in a current). If you are swept by the flow
against an obstruction, lean your body toward the obstruction instead of pushing away. Pushing
invites the flow to come in and over the side more quickly.

IF YOU DUNK...Be ready for an occasional dunking when you canoe. Don't panic. In calm
waters, angle your way up to shore instead of paddling straight. Stay behind the boat,
and hold onto it for flotation. Always wear your life jacket.

IF YOU CAPSIZE...If your boat capsizes, don't panic. Your canoe can be flipped back over.
Over-turned canoes float. First, assure that all passengers are safe before attempting to
retrieve equipment. Stay with your canoe unless you judge that doing so will be dangerous.
If you can stay with the canoe you can guide it into quiet water. Stay at the upstream end
of the canoe so that if the canoe becomes pinned, you don't. If possible hold on to your
paddle...you'll need it later. Don't try to swim in rapids. Float in your life jacket on your
back, with your feet downstream. If the water is cold, get ashore quickly.

IF YOUR BUDDY CAPSIZES...If someone else's canoe has dumped offer your assistance. If it comes
down to a rescue, remember...it's the people first, then the equipment. If it's cold, get
them ashore, dry them and warm them immediately. It may not occur to them that they're
uncomfortable because of confusion. Above all, keep calm and encourage the "dunkees" to do
likewise.

REMEMBER...Standing up or moving about in a canoe greatly increase the chance of capsize.
Maintain three points of contact while moving around.
Load the boat properly.
Keep your shoulders inside the gunwales of the boat.
Take hands-on training.
Wear a PFD.
Don't drink alcohol immediately preceding or during a paddling trip.
Understand your limitation and that of the vessel.
Plan ahead.
Know how to swim.
Never paddle alone.